System and method for managing sample collection data and documentation

ABSTRACT

What is provided is a system and methods for more quickly, accurately, and efficiently collecting, tracking, and transmitting sample collection data and information. Specifically, this involves the generation of printed labels in the field comprising labels with barcodes corresponding to specific sample collection data and information. The labels are printed at the location of the sampling and applied on the outside of sample collection devices, such as bottles and coolers, for transport to desired environmental facilities. Each bar code is associated with a unique record number in the Electronic Chain of Custody (ECOC), corresponding to a specific sample. The collection information and data corresponding to the samples are automatically populated to databases in sample testing facilities upon scanning the barcodes. The ECOC is electronically transmitted to sample testing facilities prior to the arrival of the samples.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This non-provisional patent application claims priority to and thebenefit of the filing date of provisional patent application U.S. Ser.No. 62/356,988 filed on Jun. 30, 2016 and provisional patent applicationU.S. Ser. No. 62/382,832 filed on Sep. 2, 2016, which are bothincorporated herein in their entireties.

FIELD

This patent application relates generally to the management of samplecollection data and documentation. More specifically, the patentapplication relates to a system and method for more accurately,securely, and efficiently collecting, tracking, and transmitting samplecollection data and documentation and integrating the same into sampletesting facilities.

BACKGROUND

Sample testing facilities, such as laboratories, spend a considerableamount of time and money ordering, storing, recording, and requestingdata and documentation pertaining to sample collection and tracking thecustody and control of the samples. Chain of custody records arecommonly utilized in these types of facilities due to the nature of thesamples and the specific instructions and requirements for thecollection and handling of the samples. As such, it is very importantthat no mistakes are made in collecting, tracking, recording, andtransmitting the samples, such as mislabeling a sample with theincorrect sample identification or site project information. Thus,environmental facilities incur great expense and time to ensure that thecustody and control of samples is well-documented and correct.

Currently, most laboratories receive sample data and documentation, suchas handwritten notes, handwritten bottle labels, handwritten custodyseals (such as stickers) on the outside of coolers, and handwritten labinstructions from field technicians that are collecting the samples. Thelaboratories then manually enter the data that they received from thefield technicians into their systems, and sometimes add barcodes to thebottles and coolers. In addition, the laboratories manually note thatrelevant information on chain of custody (COC) forms into their datasystem and compare COC information to sample bottle information and/orsample cooler information. Along with the inefficiencies associated withsuch a process, laboratories often have trouble deciphering handwrittendata and information, which results in inaccurate and/or lostinformation corresponding to a specific collected sample.

Chain of custody forms are necessary to document and track a samplecollection process in order to know who possessed the sample and wherethe sample has been from the time of collection through delivery to alaboratory. The most important item in the chain of custody form is aunique identifier/label to identify the sample in each bottle, cooler,and/or container. A laboratory cannot complete a sample collection andanalysis until it has a unique identifier on the bottle, container,and/or cooler corresponding to the sample. Laboratories commonlygenerate and add their own unique identifier to the bottle, container,and/or cooler in the form of a barcode or unique sample identificationnumber. They then must manually record and match up all of the data anddocumentation received through a paper chain of custody form for asample with the unique barcode or unique sample identification number.This process results in data entry errors and is unnecessarily timeconsuming and costly.

A further problem of having paper chain of custody forms is theinefficiency involved in marrying the actual sample bottles, containers,and coolers from the field with the data and documentation found in andassociated with chain of custody forms. Turnaround time is often muchslower with the current process since laboratories must wait to receivemailed copies of the chain of custody forms. The laboratory employeesmust then search for, process, and marry the chain of custody forms withthe corresponding sample bottles. Thus, there is a need for a lesstime-consuming, more accurate, and more efficient system and method formanaging the collection of sample data and documentation.

SUMMARY

What is provided is a system and methods for more accurately, securely,and efficiently collecting, tracking, and transmitting sample collectiondata and documentation and integrating the same into sample testingfacilities. Specifically, the methods and system involve the generationof field printed labels containing sample collection information andbarcodes. The labels are printed upon completion of the sampling at thelocation of the sampling. Each barcode is associated with a uniquerecord number in the Electronic Chain of Custody (ECOC), correspondingto a specific sample. Upon completion of sampling for a specific periodof time, the ECOC is immediately electronically delivered to theappropriate environmental sample collection facility, prior to thearrival of the sample in a sample collection device, such as a bottle orcontainer. Once the sample collection devices are received by theappropriate sample testing facility, such as an environmental facility,the facility can readily scan and automatically enter the informationinto its existing systems and databases, while simultaneously reviewingthe associated ECOC files. As a result, no additional sample collectioninformation needs to be manually entered.

By eliminating the need for facilities to manually enter samplecollection information, such as labels and chain of custody forms, manyinaccuracies and confusions can be avoided. In addition, projectefficiencies increase significantly when sample collection data anddocumentation are instantly available due to the elimination of severalcostly and time-consuming steps. The system may be used for collectingsamples in a variety of fields, including, but not limited toenvironmental, forensic, and medical.

In exemplary embodiments, the system comprises a mobile computing deviceadapted to be operated at a sample collection site (“field mobilecomputing device”). The mobile computing device configured to receiveand transmit the data and information corresponding to the sample andthe mobile computing device comprising a camera, a database, and aprocessor connected to the database. The system further comprises amobile software application having a user interface and configured tooperate on the mobile computing device, the mobile software applicationis further configured to receive, sort, process, display, and transmitthe collection data and information corresponding to the sample.

In exemplary embodiments, the system also comprises a label printer incommunication with the mobile computing device, the label printerconfigured to receive the collection data and information correspondingto the sample and to print a label comprising a unique identifierspecific for the sample in response to a first signal from the mobilesoftware application; a first sample collection device for collecting,storing, and transporting the sample, the label affixed to the outsideof the first sample collection device at a sample collection site suchthat the unique identifier is entirely visible; a computing systemlocated remotely from the sample collection site, the computing systemcomprising a computing system database and a computing system processorconnected to the computing system database, the computing system isconfigured to receive the collection data and information correspondingto the sample from the mobile software application; and a barcode readerin communication with the computing system, the barcode readerconfigured to scan the unique identifier on the first sample collectiondevice and to immediately populate the collection data and informationcorresponding to the sample in the computing system.

In exemplary embodiments, the sample is selected from the groupconsisting of a soil sample, a ground water sample, a surface watersample, a waste water sample, a storm water sample, an air sample, anasbestos sample, a lead paint sample, a forensic sample, a biologicalsample, a chemical sample, and any combination thereof.

In exemplary embodiments, a method for managing collection data andinformation corresponding to at least one sample using a mobile softwareapplication configured to operate on a mobile computing devicecomprises:

(i) providing at least one first sample collection device to a firstsample collector;

(ii) allowing the first sample collector to access the mobile softwareapplication on the mobile computing device;

(iii) receiving a set of instructions from the mobile softwareapplication for filling the first sample collection device;

(iv) sorting and processing the collection data and informationcorresponding to the at least one sample via the mobile softwareapplication;

(v) sending, via the mobile software application, a first signal to alabel printer to print a label corresponding to the at least one firstsample collection device, the label comprising a unique identifierspecific for the at least one sample;

(vi) affixing the label to the at least one first sample collectiondevice at a sample collection site;

(vii) delivering the at least one first sample collection devicecomprising the at least one sample and transmitting, via the mobilecomputing device, an electronic chain of custody corresponding to the atleast one sample to a computing system located remotely from the samplecollection site, the electronic chain of custody is transmitted to thecomputing system prior to delivery of the at least one first samplecollection device; and

(viii) scanning the unique identifier on the at least one first samplecollection device using a barcode reader in communication with thecomputing system to immediately populate the collection data andinformation corresponding to the at least one sample and the electronicchain of custody in the computing system.

In exemplary embodiments, the method further comprises prior to step(iii), capturing biometric information from the first sample collectorusing the mobile computing device; prior to step (vii), transferring theat least one first sample collection device and the electronic chain ofcustody to a second sample collector using the mobile computing device;prior to step (vii), allowing the second sample collector to access themobile software application; prior to step (vii), capturing biometricinformation from the second sample collector; prior to step (vii),placing the at least one first sample collection device into an at leastone second sample collection device, the second sample collection deviceis adapted to contain a plurality of first sample collection devices;prior to step (vii), sending, via the mobile software application, asecond signal to the label printer to print a custody seal correspondingto the at least one second sample collection device, the custody sealcomprising a bar code specific for the at least one sample; and prior tostep (viii), scanning the barcode on the at least one second samplecollection device using the barcode reader to immediately populate thecollection data and information corresponding to the at least one sampleand the electronic chain of custody in the computing system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Subject matter is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in theconcluding portion of the specification. Claimed subject matter,however, as to structure, organization and method of operation, togetherwith objects, features, and advantages thereof, may best be understoodby reference to the following detailed description if read with theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an exemplary system for managing samplecollection data and documentation from sample collection through sampledelivery;

FIG. 2 is a flow of an exemplary method for managing sample collectioninformation and data using the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of another exemplary method for managing samplecollection information and data using the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for managing samplecollection information and data using a plurality of sample collectiondevices;

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an exemplary label printed by a label printerin the field with a barcode generated by the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is an exemplary depiction of the field mobile computing device ofFIG. 1 capturing a close-up image of the individual;

FIG. 7 is an exemplary depiction of the field mobile computing device ofFIG. 1 capturing a fingerprint impression of the individual;

FIG. 8a is a plan view of an exemplary user interface for Low FlowSampling Display of sample collection information and data generatedusing the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8b is a plan view of an additional exemplary user interface for LowFlow Sampling Display of sample collection information and datagenerated using the system of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 9 is a plan view of an exemplary user interface for Grab Samplingof sample collection information and data generated using the system ofFIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are setforth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the examples asdefined in the claimed subject matter, and as an example of how to makeand use the examples described herein. However, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that claimed subject matter is not intended tobe limited to such specific details, and may even be practiced withoutrequiring such specific details. In other instances, well-known methods,procedures, and ingredients have not been described in detail so as notto obscure the invention defined by the claimed subject matter.

Some portions of the detailed description that follow are presented interms of algorithms and/or symbolic representations of operations ondata bits and/or binary digital signals stored within a computingsystem, such as within a computer and/or computing system memory. Analgorithm is here and generally considered to be a self-consistentsequence of operations and/or similar processing leading to a desiredresult. The operations and/or processing may take the form of electricaland/or magnetic signals configured to be stored, transferred, combined,compared and/or otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient attimes, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to thesesignals as bits, data, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms,numbers, numerals and/or the like. It should be understood, however,that all of these and similar terms are to be associated withappropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels. Unlessspecifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the followingdiscussion, it is appreciated that throughout this specificationdiscussions utilizing terms such as “processing”, “computing”,“calculating”, “determining” and/or the like refer to the actions and/orprocesses of a computing platform, such as a computer or a similarelectronic computing device that manipulates and/or transforms datarepresented as physical electronic and/or magnetic quantities and/orother physical quantities within the computing platform's processors,memories, registers, and/or other information storage, transmission,and/or display devices.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the followingdiscussion, it is appreciated that throughout this specification acomputing platform includes, but is not limited to, a device such as acomputer or a similar electronic computing device that manipulatesand/or transforms data represented by physical, electronic, and/ormagnetic quantities and/or other physical quantities within thecomputing platform's processors, memories, registers, and/or otherinformation storage, transmission, reception and/or display devices.Accordingly, a computing platform refers to a system, a device, and/or alogical construct that includes the ability to process and/or store datain the form of signals. Thus, a computing platform, in this context, maycomprise hardware, software, firmware and/or any combination thereof.Where it is described that a user instructs a computing platform toperform a certain action, it is understood that “instructs” may mean todirect or cause to perform a task as a result of a selection or actionby a user. A user may, for example, instruct a computing platform embarkupon a course of action via an indication of a selection, including, forexample, pushing a key, clicking a mouse, maneuvering a pointer,touching a touch pad, touching a touch screen, acting out touch screengesturing movements, maneuvering an electronic pen device over a screen,verbalizing voice commands, and/or by audible sounds. A user may includean end-user.

Flowcharts, also referred to as flow diagrams by some, are used in somefigures herein to illustrate certain aspects of some examples. Logicthey illustrate is not intended to be exhaustive of any, all, or evenmost possibilities. Their purpose is to help facilitate an understandingof this disclosure with regard to the particular matters disclosedherein. To this end, many well-known techniques and design choices arenot repeated herein so as not to obscure the teachings of thisdisclosure.

Throughout this specification, the term “system” may, depending at leastin part upon the particular context, be understood to include anymethod, process, apparatus, and/or other patentable subject matter thatimplements the subject matter disclosed herein. The subject matterdescribed herein may be implemented in software, in combination withhardware and/or firmware. For example, the subject matter describedherein may be implemented in software executed by a hardware processor.

Throughout this specification, the terms “COC” and “chain of custody”refer to a document (in paper or electronic format) that chronologicallydocuments all operations/events pertaining to a sample. The COC mayinclude a list of samples, testing instructions, sample details, and/orproject-specific information, including, but not limited to mailingaddresses, email addresses, billing/payment information, names, andphone numbers. As such, the COC provides a history of the individualsthat handle/possess the samples from the time of collection through thedelivery of the samples to their final destination, such as alaboratory.

Throughout this specification, the terms “ECOC” and “electronic chain ofcustody” refer to COC in an electronic format. The ECOC is a file thatcan be in a variety of formats, such as Excel, CSV, etc., and can beused for a variety of purposes, such as data upload, data storage, anddata/information reporting.

Referring to FIG. 1, FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an exemplarysystem 100 for managing sample collection data and documentation fromsample collection through sample delivery. In this example, the system100 is particularly configured for collecting samples, such asenvironmental samples, identifying and labeling the samples, trackingthe samples, and creating an ECOC file to document a particular samplecollection process and to transmit the corresponding data anddocumentation. The samples may be collected from all kinds of media,such as, but not limited to soil samples, ground water samples, surfacewater samples, waste water samples, storm water samples, air samples,asbestos samples, and lead paint samples. The system 100 may be used forcollecting samples in a variety of fields, including, but not limited toenvironmental, forensic, and medical.

In this example, the system 100 comprises at least one mobile computingdevice adapted to be operated at a sample collection site (“field mobilecomputing device”) 110, a label printer 120, a first sample collectiondevice 130, at least one computing system 140, and a barcodescanner/reader 150. The field mobile computing device 110 may be anycomputing device, such as, but not limited to a smartphone, smart watch,tablet, notebook computer, computer server, personal digital assistant,mobile device, handheld device, or any other functionally equivalentdevice known in the art.

The field mobile computing device 110 comprises a database and aprocessor connected to the database. The field mobile computing device110 also comprises a memory, the memory-storing instructions executableby the processor. The memory may include any volatile, non-volatile,magnetic, or electrical media, such as a random access memory (RAM),read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or any other digital media. Insome examples, the field mobile computing device 110 comprises a cameracapable of capturing a digital image or video and at least one sensor,such as an image sensor.

The field mobile computing device 110 is capable of transmitting andreceiving sample information to and from the label printer 120 and thecomputing system 140 via a wireless connection. The wirelesscommunication may occur over a network, or other forms of indirectcommunication. Communications may occur directly over a local areanetwork (LAN), wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, cloudenvironment, telecommunications network, WiFi, Bluetooth, or any othercommunications technique. In other examples, the communication betweenthe field mobile computing device 110 and the label printer 120 or thefield mobile computing device 110 and the computing system 140 may occurvia a wired connection.

The first sample collection device 130 may be a bottle, container,cooler, or a functionally equivalent device used to collect andtransport samples. In some examples, the first sample collection device130 may be placed into a second sample collection device 160, which islarger than the first sample collection device 130, to more readilystore, preserve, and transport the sample located in the first samplecollection device 130. The second sample collection device 160 may be abottle, container, cooler, or a functionally equivalent device that cancollect, preserve, and transport a plurality of first sample collectiondevices 130. In some examples, the second sample collection device 160also includes ice or cooling packs/gels in order to preserve samplesduring their transportation from the field to designated facilities.

In some embodiments, the system 100 may also include a mobile softwareapplication configured to operate and be stored on the field mobilecomputing device 110. The mobile software application provides a userinterface that accepts input directly from the operator of the fieldmobile computing device 110 in order to perform various functions of thesystem 100. In some embodiments, the operator of the field mobilecomputing device 110 may be referred to as a sample collector, projectmanager, or field technician. The mobile software application may alsoreceive information from other mobile computing devices or the computingsystem 140.

In some examples, the mobile software application is pre-configured withspecific collection instructions and data, such as, but not limited to,the size of the first sample collection device 130, the type of thefirst sample collection device 130 (plastic, glass, etc.), the type ofpreservative, special handling instructions, the number of samplecollection devices, and the hold times for each test that theenvironmental facility uses. In some examples, the mobile softwareapplication uses the pre-configured specific collection instructions todetermine which tests need to be conducted, and in turn, which samplecollection devices need to be filled. In other examples, the mobilesoftware application may be configured to determine the appropriate testrequirements and sample collection device requirements on the fly inresponse to various field observations and/or activities, such as, butnot limited a sudden pipeline leak, a tanker rollover, a leaking tank,or other spill/release.

Additionally, the mobile software application may include an applicationfor sorting and processing sample collection information, such as, butnot limited to the name of the operator of the field mobile computingdevice 110, sample site project information, addresses, sampleidentification information, dates, and times. The mobile softwareapplication is configured to communicate the sample collectioninformation to the label printer 120, which is portable and locatedremotely from the computing system 140. In some examples, the labelprinter 120 is located at the site of sample collection.

In response to communication received from the field mobile computingdevice 110, the label printer 120 prints the appropriate number oflabels with specific sample collection information and datacorresponding to each sample collection device to be filled with asample. In addition, the label printer 120 prints a unique identifier,such as a barcode, on each label that serves to marry the printed samplecollection information and data with the first sample collection device130 for downstream tracking, processing, and analysis of the sample. Asa result, each printed label includes sample collection data andinformation, which directly corresponds to a complete ECOC files, whichare stored on the field mobile computing device 110. The label printer120 may be any conventional label printer. One example of the labelprinter 120 is a 12 V thermal label printer.

The barcode scanner/reader 150 is in communication with the computingsystem 140 and is capable of transmitting sample collection informationand the barcode to the computing system 140. The sample collectioninformation and the barcode are transmitted to the computing system 140when the barcode scanner/reader 150 scans the barcode on the firstsample collection device 130.

In other examples, the label printer 120 may be a thermal printer thatprints a QR code on each label that serves to marry the printed samplecollection information and data with the first sample collection device130 for downstream tracking, processing, and analysis of the sample. AQR code can be generated embedding certain information about the sampleand actions to be performed on the sample. This QR code may then be usedlater and scanned by the computing system 140 at a facility that acceptsthe sample labeled with the QR code. In some embodiments, the QR code isscanned/read by a stereoscopic camera in communication with thecomputing system 140. Once the QR code is scanned, data input fields maybe pre-populated with the ECOC and sample information.

In some examples, the computing system 140 may be operated by a sampletesting facility, such as a laboratory or other entity which administerssample testing for environmental, forensic, and/or medical purposes. Insome examples, the computing system 140 is a laboratory computerassociated with the receipt of samples and sample associated informationand data. In some examples, the computing system 140 comprises aprocessor, a camera, such as a stereoscopic camera, and memory, thememory-storing instructions executable by the processor. The memory mayinclude any volatile, non-volatile, magnetic, or electrical media, suchas a random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory,or any other digital media. The computing system 140 may comprise anycomputing device, whether or not mobile, such as a desktop computer,laptop computer, tablet, phone, or network server. The computing system140 can receive and transmit sample collection information and data toand from the field mobile computing device 110, computing systemsoperated by other environmental facilities, regulators, fieldtechnicians, and project managers. Communication may occur directly overa local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) such as theInternet, cloud environment, telecommunications network, WiFi,Bluetooth, or any other communications technique.

Referring to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method200 for managing sample collection information and data using the system100 of FIG. 1. As shown in block 210, the method 200 begins when asample testing facility, such as a laboratory, provides a first samplecollection device 130 to an individual responsible for collecting thesample. This individual may be referred to as a field technician,project manager, sample collector, operator, and the like. In block 220,the individual registers for and logs into the mobile softwareapplication on the field mobile computing device 110 by providing thenecessary authorization information, such as a username and password.

Next, as shown in block 230, the mobile software application on thefield mobile computing device 110 provides instructions for identifyingand filling the first sample collection device 130. In some examples,the instructions are based on specific, pre-defined sample collectioninstructions provided by the sample testing facility. In other examples,the instructions are based on spontaneous decisions of the individualcollecting the samples in response to various field observations and/oractivities.

In some examples, the specific, pre-defined sample collectioninstructions and data are immediately downloaded to the field mobilecomputing device 110 through a synchronization feature on the mobilesoftware application. The sample collection instructions and datainclude, but are not limited to the types of samples, the size of thefirst sample collection device 130, the material of the first samplecollection device 130 (plastic, glass, etc.), the type of preservative,special handling instructions, the number of sample collection devices,and the hold times for each test that the predetermined environmentalfacility uses. Examples of field observations and/or activities thataffect the spontaneous decisions include, but are not limited to asudden pipeline leak, a tanker rollover, a leaking tank, or otherspill/release.

In block 240, the mobile software application on the field mobilecomputing device 110 sorts and processes the sample collectioninformation and data, including, but not limited to the name of theoperator of the field mobile computing device 110, sample site projectinformation, addresses, sample identification information, dates, andtimes. Then, in block 250, the mobile software application sends asignal to the label printer 120 directing it to print the appropriatenumber of labels at the sample collection site with the specific samplecollection information and data corresponding to each first samplecollection device 130 to be filled. Each printed label also includes abarcode or QR code that associates the sample collection information anddata with an ECOC file. The sample collection information and data isstored on the field mobile computing device 110. In some examples, thebarcode or QR code is specifically associated with a record number foundin the ECOC file. FIG. 5 shows a plan view of an exemplary label printedby the label printer 120 at the sample collection site with a barcodegenerated by the system 100 of FIG. 1.

In block 260, the first sample collection device 130 is labeled in thefield with a unique identifier, such as a barcode or a QR code, on theoutside of the first sample collection device 130. In some examples,upon completion of sample collection for a defined period of time, thefield technician delivers the first sample collection device 130 andtransmits the corresponding ECOC files to the computing system 140operated by the sample testing facility, as shown in block 270. In someexamples, the ECOC files are transmitted to the computing system 140prior to delivery of the sample in the first sample collection device130. The ECOC files may be electronically transmitted to the computingsystem 140 by any conventional means, such as via email.

The computing system 140 accesses the ECOC files upon receipt of thefirst sample collection device 130, which contains the samples. In someexamples, the ECOC data and documentation is accessed using a separate“plug-in” application that operates on the computing system 140. Then,in block 280, the barcode scanner/reader 150 scans the barcode on thefirst sample collection device 130 in order to automatically populatethe collection data and information and ECOC corresponding to the samplein the database of the computing system 140. In other examples, astereoscopic camera on the computing system 140 scans the QR code on thefirst sample collection device 130. In some examples, the computingsystem 140 database is operated by an environmental testing facility. Insome examples, the database is known as the Laboratory InformationManagement System (LIMS). As a result, no additional sample collectioninformation needs to be entered manually by the sample testing facility.

Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 shows a flow chart of another exemplarymethod 300 for managing sample collection information and data using thesystem 100 of FIG. 1. As shown in block 310, the method 300 begins whena sample testing facility, such as a laboratory, provides a first samplecollection device 130 to a first individual responsible for collectingthe sample. In block 320, the first individual registers for and logsinto the mobile software application on the field mobile computingdevice 110 by providing the necessary authorization information, such asa username and password.

Next, as shown in block 330, the first individual performs a biometricself-capture using the field mobile computing device 110 in order tomore accurately and securely track the individual(s) that have handledand/or transported samples. The biometric self-capture may also allowfor authentication of the specific individual(s) that has handledsamples when compared to the COC. In one example, the individual takes aclose-up image or video of himself/herself (“selfie”) using the cameraon the field mobile computing device 110, as shown in FIG. 6. In anotherexample, the individual provides his/her electronic signature (e.g., afingertip signature) in the field mobile computing device 110. In yetanother example, the individual provides a fingerprint impression thatmay be acquired by a finger-print reader located on the field mobilecomputing device 110, as shown in FIG. 7.

In some examples, the field mobile computing device 110 may capture morethan one type of biometric information, such as facial recognitioninformation, retinal recognition information, movement detectioninformation, voice recognition information, and light reflectioninformation, from the same first individual. Each sample testingfacility determines its own desired levels of authentication andsecurity for the handling and transport of its samples. As a result,each sample testing facility determines the types and amount ofbiometric information to be collected from the individual(s) responsiblefor handling and/or transporting the samples.

As shown in block 340, the mobile software application on the fieldmobile computing device 110 provides instructions for identifying andfilling the first sample collection device 130. In some examples, theinstructions are based on specific, pre-defined sample collectioninstructions provided by the sample testing facility. In other examples,the instructions are based on spontaneous decisions of the firstindividual collecting the samples in response to various fieldobservations and/or activities.

In block 350, the mobile software application on the field mobilecomputing device 110 sorts and processes the sample collectioninformation and data, including, but not limited to the name of theoperator of the field mobile computing device 110, sample site projectinformation, addresses, sample identification information, dates, andtimes. Then, in block 360, the mobile software application sends asignal to the label printer 120 directing it to print the appropriatenumber of labels at the sample collection site with the specific samplecollection information and data corresponding to each first samplecollection device 130 to be filled. Each printed label also includes abarcode or QR code that associates the sample collection information anddata with an ECOC file. The sample collection information and data isstored on the field mobile computing device 110.

In block 370, the first sample collection device 130 is labeled in thefield with a unique barcode or QR code on the outside of the firstsample collection device 130. Upon completion of sample collection for adefined period of time, the first individual determines whether thecollected sample(s) and corresponding ECOC file should be transmitted toa second individual responsible for additional sample collection and/orsample handling or transmitted directly to the sample testing facility.In some examples, a different individual may be responsible fortransporting the samples to the sample testing facility from theindividual that actually collected the samples in the field. In someexamples, the mobile software application is configured to provide thefirst individual with instructions for determining whether to transmitthe sample(s) and ECOC to a second individual or directly to the sampletesting facility.

If the collected sample(s) and the ECOC files are transmitted to asecond individual via the second individual's field mobile computingdevice, the second individual registers for and logs into the samemobile software application in the same manner as the first individual,as shown in block 380. The second individual then performs a biometricself-capture in the same way as the first individual, as shown in block385. The biometric information from the second individual may either becaptured on the field mobile computing device 110 that is passed fromthe first individual to the second individual or through the secondindividual's own field mobile computing device.

Once the second individual finishes collecting samples in the field, thesecond individual determines whether the collected sample(s) andcorresponding ECOC file should be transmitted to a third individualresponsible for additional sample collection and/or sample handling ortransmitted directly to the sample testing facility. In some examples,the mobile software application is configured to provide the secondindividual with instructions for determining whether to transmit thesample(s) and ECOC to a third individual or directly to the sampletesting facility.

The biometric information provided by each individual that handles anyof the samples allows for accurate verification of the data in thecorresponding ECOC files. Specifically, the biometric informationprovided by each individual can be matched with the information and datacontained within the ECOC files to prevent any ambiguity regarding whohandled the sample(s) so there is no break in chain of custody.

In block 390, the collected sample(s) and ECOC are transmitted to thesample testing facility. The ECOC files are transmitted to the computingsystem 140 operated by the sample testing facility prior to physicaldelivery of the collected sample(s) to the sample testing facility. TheECOC files may be electronically transmitted to the computing system 140by any conventional means, such as via email.

In block 395, the computing system 140 accesses the ECOC data anddocumentation upon receipt of the first sample collection device 130,which contains the samples. In some examples, the ECOC data anddocumentation is accessed using a separate “plug-in” application thatoperates on the computing system 140. Then, in block 396, the barcodescanner/reader 150 scans the barcode on the first sample collectiondevice 130 and populates the relevant sample information to thecomputing system 140. In other examples, a stereoscopic camera on thecomputing system 140 scans the QR code on the first sample collectiondevice 130. In some examples, as the first sample collection device 130is scanned, the associated ECOC data and documentation is automaticallyuploaded into the sample testing facility's existing database. In someexamples in the environmental sample testing field, the existingdatabase is known as the Laboratory Information Management System(LIMS). As a result, no additional sample collection information needsto be entered manually by the sample testing facility.

Referring to FIG. 4, FIG. 4 shows a flow chart of an exemplary method400 for managing sample collection information and data using aplurality of sample collection devices. In this exemplary method 400,the labeled first sample collection device 130 is placed into the secondsample collection device 160 for better preservation and storage of thesample(s), as shown in block 410. In order to better preserve and storethe samples contained in a plurality of first sample collection devices130 until the samples are ready to be transported to a sample testingfacility, the first sample collection devices 130 are placed into thesecond sample collection device 160.

In block 420, the individual handling the samples triggers the mobilesoftware application to generate an ECOC for the collected samplescommencing from the time that the previous ECOC was generated for thesesamples. In initiating the generation of the ECOC, the mobile softwareapplication prompts the individual to provide specific sample collectioninformation, such as the amount of first sample collection devices 130and second sample collection devices 160 needed to transport thecollected samples to the desired sample collection facility; the contactinformation for the sample collection facility that will be receivingthe collected samples; and the number of samples to be transported. Ifmore than one sample collection facility is used, the mobile softwareapplication generates a separate ECOC for each sample collectionfacility.

For any sample that is transported from the collection site to thesample testing facility by courier or is transported by more thanindividual within a company/organization, each individual involved inthe transport of the sample and/or the second collection device 160 isrequired to register an account and create a user profile with themobile software application.

Upon confirmation of the number of second sample collection devices 160,the mobile software application sends a signal to the label printer 120directing it to print one custody seal/label specific for each of thesecond sample collection devices 160, according to block 430. Eachcustody seal/label includes a barcode or a QR code and informationand/or data specific for the collected sample, such as contactinformation for the individual collecting the sample; the date and timethe custody seal/label was generated; project-specific details andparameters; information regarding the intended environmental facility;and the amount of first sample collection devices 130 and second samplecollection devices 160 (e.g. cooler 1 of 5, cooler 2 of 5, etc.) neededto transport the collected samples to the intended sample testingfacility. Each barcode or QR code is specifically associated with aunique record number in the ECOC, corresponding to a specific sample andits sample collection information and data. The sample collectioninformation and data is stored on the field mobile computing device 110.

According to block 440, the mobile software application prompts thefield technician to identify the method for transporting the collectedsamples to the intended sample testing facility. Exemplary methodsinclude commercial carrier (such as FedEx, UPS, etc.), courier (such aslab courier), or direct (in-person) delivery. Since signatures on theCOC are not obtained from the commercial carrier when transporting thesamples, the custody seal/label is particularly important fordetermining sample custody issues.

If a commercial carrier is selected for transporting the samples,custody seals/labels are specifically applied to each of the secondcollection devices 160 to be transported and contact information of thespecific commercial carrier is entered into the mobile applicationsoftware, in block 450. In addition, tracking numbers specific for thecommercial carrier may be entered into the mobile application softwarethrough the user interface and become part of the ECOC file until thesamples are transported to the desired environmental facility. In someexamples, the custody seals/labels are applied over the seam between thelid and body of the second collection device 160, such as a cooler. As aresult, the custody seal/label is broken when the cooler is opened.

Prior to delivering the samples to the designated commercial carrier,the name of the commercial carrier is entered into the mobileapplication software as the “Transferee” on the COC, along with theestimated time that the samples were delivered to the commercialcarrier. Since this process parallels existing techniques for completinga COC on paper, this process can be readily implemented by samplecollectors and sample testing facilities.

In block 460, all of the data and information pertaining to thecollection of a specific sample is electronically transmitted, alongwith the completed ECOC, to the sample testing facility's predeterminedcomputing system 140. The completed ECOC may be displayed in electronicdata file form and PDF form and may look identical to a COC completed onpaper, with the signatures in the same locations.

The computing system 140 accesses the ECOC data and documentation uponreceipt of the samples in the second sample collection device 160. Insome examples, the ECOC data and documentation is accessed using aseparate “plug-in” application that operates on the computing system140, according to block 470.

Then, in block 480, the barcode or the QR code on the custody seal/labellocated on each of the second sample collection devices 160 can bescanned by the mobile software application or by the barcodescanner/reader 150 or the stereoscopic camera in communication with thecomputing system 140. Once each second sample collection device 160 isscanned and confirmed as received, the associated ECOC data anddocumentation for each individual sample is automatically accessed anduploaded into the sample testing facility's existing database. Thisallows for the individual receiving the samples to scan and enter thefirst sample collection devices 130 into the existing database forprocessing and/or analysis. In some examples, the existing database isknown as the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). As aresult, no additional sample collection information needs to be enteredmanually by the sample testing facility.

In block 490, the individual confirms receipt of the samples and theECOC at the sample testing facility. In some examples, the individualreceiving the samples may sign his/her name using a touchscreen on thecomputing system 140. In other examples, the individual receiving thesamples may complete a biometric self-capture, such as providing facialrecognition information, retinal recognition information, movementdetection information, voice recognition information, and/or lightreflection information. The biometric information is then captured bythe computing system 140 and/or LIMS.

The system 100 allows a first registered user (referred to herein as a“transferor”) to readily transfer the ECOC and samples to a secondregistered user (referred to herein as a “transferee”) through the fieldmobile computing device 110 of the transferor in order to indicate thatthe ECOC and samples are being transferred. In some examples, afterlogging in to the mobile software application, the transferor provideshis/her biometric information to the field mobile computing device 110.The transferee then logs into the same mobile software applicationeither using the field mobile computing device 110 received from thetransferor or using his/her own field mobile computing device. Thetransferee's biometric information is then captured using a field mobilecomputing device. Upon accessing the mobile software application, thetransferee can view the ECOC, along with the number of second samplecollection devices 160 and samples transferred by the transferor.

In examples where the transferee is using a field mobile computingdevice distinct from that used by the transferor, the transferor entersthe contact information for the transferee on the mobile softwareapplication of the field mobile computing device 110 and transfers thesamples to the transferee. The transferee then scans the barcodes or QRcodes located on the custody seal/label of the second sample collectiondevices 160 using features of the transferee's mobile computing device,such as the mobile computing device's camera. Upon logging into thesystem 100 and entering his/her signature on the mobile computing deviceusing his/her fingertip, the transferee would be able to view thetransferred COC (in electronic or printed form), along with the scannedsample information and data associated with the transferred COC throughhis/her mobile computing device.

The successful transfer of the COC/ECOC is deemed completed once thetransferee can view the COC/ECOC. The communication of information anddata, such as the COC/EOC, from the field mobile computing device 110 tothe transferee's mobile computing device may occur directly over a localarea network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, cloudenvironment, telecommunications network, WiFi, Bluetooth, or any othercommunications technique. The COC/ECOC files will be transmitted in thesame way as they are transmitted when the transferor and transferee bothuse the field mobile computing device 110. There are no limits regardingthe amount of transferees that may receive the samples prior to theirtransport to the sample testing facility.

When the second sample collection devices 160 are transported directlyto a sample testing facility by the sample collector, custodyseals/labels are not required to be applied to the second samplecollection devices 160. However, in some examples, the custodyseals/labels are still applied to the second sample collection devices160. In these examples, the barcode or the QR code on the custodyseal/label located on each of the second sample collection devices 160can be scanned by the mobile software application or by the barcodescanner/reader 150 in communication with the computing system 140. Then,the individual receiving the samples in the sample testing facilitysigns his/her name using either a touchscreen on the computing system140 or a camera on the field mobile computing device 110, which is indirect communication with the computing system 140 and/or LIMS.

Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b , FIGS. 8a and 8b each show plan views ofexemplary user interfaces for Low Flow Sampling Display of samplecollection information and data generated using the system of FIG. 1.The Low Flow Sampling Display user interfaces in FIGS. 8a and 8b allowfor the input of various sample collection information and data, suchas, but not limited to the following:

1. Sample location/Well identification number;

2. Operator name;

3. Sample collection times;

4. Sample pH;

5. Sample flow rate;

6. Sample temperature;

7. Sample conductivity;

8. Sample turbidity;

9. Sample reduction potential;

10. Sample dissolved oxygen; and

11. Site name.

The Low Flow Sampling Display in FIGS. 5a and 5b allow for themanipulation of the sample collection information and data through thecreation of tables, graphs, maps, and images. In addition, the mobilesoftware application allows for the following actions to be performed bythe user through the Low Flow Sampling Display user interface:

1. Stop data collection and start collecting sample and print labels;

2. Capture GPS;

3. Generate picture;

4. Re-print individual sample bottle labels;

5. E-mail data;

6. Upload data to website; and

7. Synchronize to store, upload, and email data.

Referring to FIG. 9, FIG. 9 shows a plan view of an exemplary userinterface for Grab Sampling of sample collection information and datagenerated using the system of FIG. 1. The Grab Sampling user interfacein FIG. 9 allows for the input of various sample collection informationand data, such as, but not limited to the following:

1. Site name;

2. Sample location/Well identification number;

3. Operator name;

4. Comments;

5. Sample collection times;

6. Sample pH;

7. Sample flow rate;

8. Sample temperature;

9. Sample conductivity;

10. Sample turbidity;

11. Sample reduction potential; and

12. Sample dissolved oxygen.

The Grab Sampling user interface in FIG. 9 allows for the manipulationof the sample collection information and data through the creation oftables, graphs, maps, and images. In addition, the mobile softwareapplication allows for the following actions to be performed by the userthrough the Grab Sampling user interface:

1. Capture GPS;

2. Generate picture;

3. Print individual sample bottle labels;

4. E-mail data;

5. Upload data to website; and 6. Synchronize to store, upload, andemail data.

Other features of the mobile software application allow for thesynchronization of the mobile software application with the field mobilecomputing device 110 and/or the computing system 140. This featureallows for the immediate transmission of all sample collectioninformation and data relating to a particular project work scope. As aresult, sample collection information and data may be quickly and easilytransmitted to and from the mobile software application.

As used herein, computing system and computer readable storage media donot cover signals or other such unpatentable subject matter. Onlynon-transitory computer readable storage media is intended within thescope and spirit of claimed subject matter.

It will, of course, be understood that, although particular exampleshave just been described, the claimed subject matter is not limited inscope to a particular example or limitation. Likewise, an example may beimplemented in any combination of compositions of matter, apparatuses,methods or products made by a process, for example.

In the preceding description, various aspects of claimed subject matterhave been described. For purposes of explanation, specific numbers,percentages, components, ingredients and/or configurations were setforth to provide a thorough understanding of claimed subject matter.However, it should be apparent to one skilled in the art having thebenefit of this disclosure that claimed subject matter may be practicedwithout the specific details. In other instances, features that would beunderstood by one of ordinary skill were omitted or simplified so as notto obscure claimed subject matter. While certain features and exampleshave been illustrated or described herein, many modifications,substitutions, changes or equivalents will now occur to those skilled inthe art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims areintended to cover all such modifications or changes as fall within thetrue spirit of claimed subject matter.

1. A system for managing collection data and information correspondingto a sample, the system comprising: a mobile computing device configuredto receive and transmit the collection data and informationcorresponding to the sample, the mobile computing device comprising acamera, a database, and a processor connected to the database; a mobilesoftware application having a user interface and configured to operateon the mobile computing device, the mobile software application isfurther configured to receive, sort, process, display, and transmit thecollection data and information corresponding to the sample; a labelprinter in communication with the mobile computing device, the labelprinter configured to receive the collection data and informationcorresponding to the sample and to print a label comprising a uniqueidentifier specific for the sample in response to a first signal fromthe mobile software application; a first sample collection device forcollecting, storing, and transporting the sample, the label affixed tothe outside of the first sample collection device at a sample collectionsite such that the unique identifier is entirely visible; a computingsystem located remotely from the sample collection site, the computingsystem comprising a computing system database and a computing systemprocessor connected to the computing system database, the computingsystem is configured to receive the collection data and informationcorresponding to the sample from the mobile software application; and abarcode reader in communication with the computing system, the barcodereader configured to scan the unique identifier on the first samplecollection device and to immediately populate the collection data andinformation corresponding to the sample in the computing system.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1, the sample is selected from the group consisting of asoil sample, a ground water sample, a surface water sample, a wastewater sample, a storm water sample, an air sample, an asbestos sample, alead paint sample, a forensic sample, a biological sample, a chemicalsample, and any combination thereof.
 3. The system of claim 1, theunique identifier is a barcode, the barcode is associated with a uniquerecord number in an electronic chain of custody corresponding to thesample.
 4. The system of claim 4, the electronic chain of custody isgenerated and stored on the mobile computing device.
 5. The system ofclaim 1, the mobile software application is pre-configured with a set ofcollection and testing instructions corresponding to the sample.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, the computing system further comprises a stereoscopiccamera.
 7. The system of claim 1, the mobile computing device furthercomprising at least one biometric sensor, the biometric sensorconfigured to capture biometric information from a sample collector'sface, eyes, skin, electronic fingertip signature, and any combinationthereof.
 8. The system of claim 1, the system further comprising asecond sample collection device that is larger than the first samplecollection device, the first sample collection device is configured tobe placed in a second sample collection device.
 9. The system of claim8, the second sample collection device is labeled and sealed with acustody seal printed by the label printer in response to a second signalfrom the mobile software application.
 10. The system of claim 9, thecustody seal comprises a barcode.
 11. A method for managing collectiondata and information corresponding to at least one sample using a mobilesoftware application configured to operate on a mobile computing device,the method comprising: (i) providing at least one first samplecollection device to a first sample collector; (ii) allowing the firstsample collector to access the mobile software application on the mobilecomputing device; (iii) receiving a set of instructions from the mobilesoftware application for filling the first sample collection device;(iv) sorting and processing the collection data and informationcorresponding to the at least one sample via the mobile softwareapplication; (v) sending, via the mobile software application, a firstsignal to a label printer to print a label corresponding to the at leastone first sample collection device, the label comprising a uniqueidentifier specific for the at least one sample; (vi) affixing the labelto the at least one first sample collection device at a samplecollection site; (vii) delivering the at least one first samplecollection device comprising the at least one sample and transmitting,via the mobile computing device, an electronic chain of custodycorresponding to the at least one sample to a computing system locatedremotely from a sample collection site, the electronic chain of custodyis transmitted to the computing system prior to delivery of the at leastone first sample collection device; and (viii) scanning the uniqueidentifier on the at least one first sample collection device using abarcode reader in communication with the computing system to immediatelypopulate the collection data and information corresponding to the atleast one sample and the electronic chain of custody in the computingsystem.
 12. The method of claim 11, the at least one sample is selectedfrom the group consisting of a soil sample, a ground water sample, asurface water sample, a waste water sample, a storm water sample, an airsample, an asbestos sample, a lead paint sample, a forensic sample, abiological sample, a chemical sample, and any combination thereof. 13.The method of claim 11, the set of instructions are pre-defined andconfigured to be immediately downloaded to the mobile computing devicethrough the mobile software application.
 14. The method of claim 11, theunique identifier is a barcode, the barcode is associated with a uniquerecord number in the electronic chain of custody.
 15. The method ofclaim 11, the electronic chain of custody is transmitted to thecomputing system via email.
 16. The method of claim 11, the methodfurther comprising, prior to step (iii), capturing biometric informationfrom the first sample collector using the mobile computing device. 17.The method of claim 16, the biometric information is captured from thefirst sample collector's face, eyes, and/or skin.
 18. The method ofclaim 16, the biometric information is captured from the first samplecollector's electronic fingertip signature.
 19. The method of claim 16,the method further comprising, prior to step (vii), transferring the atleast one first sample collection device and the electronic chain ofcustody to a second sample collector using the mobile computing device.20. The method of claim 19, the method further comprising, prior to step(vii), allowing the second sample collector to access the mobilesoftware application.
 21. The method of claim 20, the method furthercomprising, prior to step (vii), capturing biometric information fromthe second sample collector.
 22. The method of claim 11, the methodfurther comprising, prior to step (vii), placing the at least one firstsample collection device into an at least one second sample collectiondevice, the second sample collection device is adapted to contain aplurality of first sample collection devices.
 23. The method of claim22, the method further comprising, prior to step (vii), sending, via themobile software application, a second signal to the label printer toprint a custody seal corresponding to the at least one second samplecollection device, the custody seal comprising a bar code.
 24. Themethod of claim 23, the method further comprising, prior to step (viii),scanning the barcode on the at least one second sample collection deviceusing the barcode reader to immediately populate the collection data andinformation corresponding to the at least one sample and the electronicchain of custody in the computing system.